Building on the introductory session, this workshop offers a closer look at materials commonly used in permanent public artworks and the production techniques used to shape them. We’ll explore how material properties affect structural performance, finish quality, and maintenance requirements. Artists will also learn about sequencing and common fabrication challenges that can significantly impact project timelines and budgets. This session is designed to help artists translate creative intent into buildable, durable works that meet the practical demands of public space.
Guest Speakers
Inspired by changing ecosystems in the natural world, John works with his studio team to sculpt immersive large-scale, site-specific installations. Kinetics, impermanence and chance are often central to the work. Working in a broad range of types of sites is an important priority in order to reach and engage diverse groups of people. Actively engaging people to directly participate in the creation and alteration of the sculpture over time is another important aspect to the sculpture.
John is the recipient of the 2010 Metcalf Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters (NY), a Tiffany Foundation Award (NY), three Andy Warhol Foundation Grant Awards (NY), two Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grants (NY), the 2011 Arlene Schnitzer Prize from the Portland Art Museum (OR), and the 2013 Arts Innovator Award from Artist Trust (WA).
Chris Dyson is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Dyson & Womack, a Los Angeles–based public-art consulting and fabrication firm. With over 20 years of experience co-owning and managing successful cultural consulting and public art fabrication and production companies, he leads projects that bridge artistic vision, community priorities, and lasting civic impact. Under his leadership, Dyson & Womack has become a recognized platform for commissioning, planning, and developing public artworks that shape inclusive cultural infrastructure statewide.